Take care of senior golfers

In the year 2000 I met 82 year Saul. He came through the test center and I noticed for a senior golfer he was very agile. It was senior test day and he was taking his turn. For everyone who came out to test they received a dozen golf balls as compensation. He did not want the normal brand of Top Flite XL but chose the Hogan Tour ball. I asked him why he chose this particular ball. He said it was the best ball he ever played. I agreed. Thereafter we became good friends.

Saul hit his driver less then 200 yards. He proclaimed that he used to hit it 250 or more yards. I asked him if he wanted to get some of that back. I saw some things that could be helpful.

A few days later we met and played 18. I brought him a new driver which I was sure fit him. The one he had been using had a “stiff” shaft and of course was not working for his senior slower swing. After a few holes we walked off his drive and it totaled 225 yards. He was ecstatic. He bought the club on the spot. Saul and I continued to [play for a number of years. I saw other things we could tweak and he broke 80 for the first time in years.

Why am I telling you this story? Because there are numerous senior golfers playing with the wrong equipment. Perhaps a little adjustment in the swing technique wouldn’t hurt. What often happens is we play with self proclaimed teachers. I have said on occasion that there is more advice given on a golf course in 30 minutes than a marriage counselors office in 8 hours. My advice is see your pro. He can quickly view your swing and make even small adjustments. I have found that giving small teaching advice is best. An entrenched senor golfer won’t stand for a complete overhaul.

It is an accepted fact that most golf courses rely on their senior crowd for cash flow. They are a great asset to most clubs. So you club owners and pros take good care of them.

If you need help or would like to see a new driver at our fall specials, please contact me at Dcharn1@sbcglobal.net